Head On Collision with Wrong Way Semi-Tractor Leaves 10-Year Old Boy Dead
Just this last week, a 10-year old boy lost his life as he rode with his mother in their family van on Interstate 10 west of Jacksonville. Around 8pm Wednesday night, the family van was struck by a semi tractor trailer that apparently lost control and ended up flipping into oncoming traffic.
What Happened in the Truck Accident?
The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the events that transpired, but early indications show the semi to have been heading east on I-10 when it somehow entered the median, flipped on its side, and then slid into the family’s van that was traveling in the westbound lane. The boy was pronounced dead on the scene and his mother was life-flighted to Orange Park Medical Center with serious injuries.
The driver of the semi tractor trailer has been identified and is cooperating with the police. Charges are reportedly pending in the crash. Investigations will focus on factors that may have contributed to the crash such as driver fatigue, proper vehicle maintenance, drugs and alcohol, and others.
Why Are Semi-Truck Accidents So Dangerous?
As semi tractor personal injury attorneys, we have seen this scenario played out time and time again. We have written about tragic accidents that change lives forever when a 53’ semi tractor trailer, legally allowed to weigh as much as 80,000 pounds, is in an accident with vehicles a fraction of its size.
Factors that Can Contribute to the Accident:
- Driver fatigue: according to the National Transportation Safety Board, 30-40% of semi-truck related accidents are the result of driver fatigue.
- Improper Maintenance: trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their equipment in a safe manner. When these companies cut corners to maximize profits, the results can be disastrous.
- Underride Slide: if semi-trailers are not equipped with underride guards, cars can easily slide underneath – causing incredible damage to vehicles and occupants.
What Happens in a Semi Truck Accident Case?
Having an experienced trucking accident attorney on your side can make all the difference in seeking the maximum compensation available to you under the law.
At the scene of the accident, make sure the police are called and you complete an accident report. Try to document the scene with photographs or video evidence. You also need to make sure you seek medical attention for any injuries you have and keep all documentation.
Our firm employs skilled investigators to collect key evidence for our attorneys and their support staff to put together the best case possible. We are meticulous and will document every cent that was taken. Our Florida truck accident attorneys will take the time to:
- Assemble all of the evidence related to the case: accident reports, eyewitness testimony, video, photos, etc.
- Have your medical records from the accident reviewed by trusted medical professionals.
- Utilize an accident reconstruction expert to testify on your behalf.
Experienced trucking accident attorneys also look at future costs of your accident. This could include the cost of losing an activity you once enjoyed or missing out on life’s precious moments because the accident robbed you of mobility. Whatever the costs are, we find these, document them according to the letter of the law, and put together a demand for the insurance company to pay what’s fair.
Sometimes, insurance companies delay a claims process, stop talking altogether, or throw out such an unreasonable offer that it becomes necessary to file suit. No matter what road is necessary, we will pursue everything owed to you after a trucking accident.
Truck Accident Lawyers You Can Trust
After a tragedy like this, loved ones are searching for solid ground – anything to help them get through the day and take care of basic needs. This is not the time when haggling insurance companies should press victims to make decisions but that’s exactly what happens. When you engage with an experienced Florida truck accident attorney, our team comes alongside you to shoulder the burden of negotiating with insurance companies, doctors’ offices, and other arrangements. This lets you focus on healing for yourself and your family. Contact our team whenever you need us to be there, day or night, 24/7.
